The Delhi transport department is planning to boost the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in the workplace by introducing a special reference in the Electric Vehicle Policy for government employees.
Officials said that the new policy will offer subsidies and free charging facilities, among other benefits, to all Delhi government employees who purchase EVs through Delhi Finance Corporation (DFC).
As of now, there is a general provision of subsidies for citizens on the purchase of EVs, including two-wheelers and four-wheelers. However, to promote the adoption of EVs on a larger scale, the government has decided to provide a five percent additional subsidy to government employees who purchase vehicles through DFC. The new policy will be extended to electric four-wheelers and all government employees.
The primary objective behind this policy is to encourage government employees to use e-bikes, scooters, and cars, and promote the faster adoption of the EV policy that was notified in 2020.
The policy is expected to reduce pollution and inspire the public to adopt EVs. The plan includes setting up charging infrastructure for employees and other government staff in DTC depots and units, where charging will be free. Employees who do not have sufficient funds to purchase EVs can avail of loans from financial institutions impaneled by DFC and get a five percent extra subsidy. The government will also tie up with firms for the purchase of EVs through installment payments or explore giving loans and deducting them from the staff's salary.
The officials said that the policy aims to encourage more people to switch to electric mobility and help reduce pollution in the national capital. The government believes that offering subsidies and charging facilities to government employees will help create a model for other organizations to follow.
The move is also expected to increase the demand for EVs in the country, which will promote the growth of the EV industry and create job opportunities. The policy is expected to be implemented soon, and officials hope that it will lead to a significant increase in the number of EVs on Delhi's roads.
